Decoding Surface Finish Gages and Parameters
Long-wavelength waviness and short-wavelength roughness require a wide variety of instruments and parameters for proper measurement — and lower numbers aren’t always better.
George Schuetz
Director of Precision Gages, Mahr Inc.
Dial vs. Test Indicators
Dial and test indicators are close cousins. They are both mechanical magnifying devices used for dimensional comparison.
Tips for Choosing Filter Settings When Measuring Round Shapes
When interpreting measurement data, the correct filter setting is necessary to see the difference between surface roughness and part roundness.
Just This Once, You Can Blame the Gage
Even the old, reliable gage is subject to wear. George Schuetz, director of precision gages at Mahr inc., gives guidance for machinists to maintain their gages.
Automating the Indicator Calibration Process
Eliminate human error when calibrating precision hand tools by leveraging modern vision systems.
Portable Surface Gaging in a Production Environment
Handheld portable surface gages are easy to use. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges when scanning hundreds or even thousands of parts.
How To Calibrate Your Calipers
If you’re interested in calibrating your own digital, dial or Vernier calipers, here are some steps to take to make sure it goes off without a hitch.
Choose the Correct ID/OD Gage for the Task
Benchtop and portable comparator gages each have their place, but the differences are more than surface deep.
George Schuetz
Director of Precision Gages, Mahr Inc.
How To Measure Surface Roughness on Large Parts
Performing surface finish measurements on large or complex parts can be made much easier with properly designed fixturing.
Introduction to Digital Depth Gage Styles
There are many digital calipers specifically designed as depth gages. They share some common features but come in a variety of styles. Here are several to consider.
Artificial Intelligence from an Intelligent Amplifier
With intelligent amplifiers providing measuring capabilities and easier setups, it’s easier than ever to understand what is going on in the manufacturing process in real time.
Cord Cutting and Code Reading Make Gaging Smarter
Many companies have “cut the cord” to streamline metrology operations and data management. Barcode scanning is an additional option.
What’s the Correct Reading?
A CMM, a bore mic and an air gage measure parts differently and may provide different values, yet all of them may be correct. Here’s how.
Know the Performance Levels of Your Gages
By understanding the characteristics of three types of gages, you can choose the correct one for your application.
Confirming Dimensional Accuracy of a Precision Ball
A single diameter isn’t the only measurement parameter that can be used to ensure accuracy.
George Schuetz
Director of Precision Gages, Mahr Inc.
There is More Than One Way to Find a Match
Three ways to control the clearance between critical-fit parts.
Getting More with Digital Indicators
Today’s digital indicators are not only replacing dial indicators in some instances, but they are also approaching the performance of bench amplifiers at a fraction of the cost.
Taking A Reading on Gages
Are we taking advantage of the vast amounts of dimensional information that a gage or hand tool can produce? Certainly not if the information presented on the gage display reads only “over,” “under” or “good.”
Ask Questions About Surface Finish Call-outs
All the details of the measuring process must be uncovered.
Closing the Loop for Better Gaging
Gages and measuring instruments come in different shapes and sizes. Whether it be a snap gage, a bench stand, a surface-finish gage or even a form system, keeping the “measuring loop” as small or as short as possible is important for better gage performance.
When to Use 2D or 3D Surface Measurement
Instead of committing exclusively to 2D or 3D surface measurement, shops should consider their use cases.
George Schuetz
Director of Precision Gages, Mahr Inc.
The Versatility of Snap Gages
The many design modifications available in snap gages enables them to measure some of the most difficult dimensions, right at the point of manufacture.
There’s a Micrometer for That
Match your micrometer choice to your specific machine shop needs.
Maintaining an Air Gage System’s High Performance
Tight, clean and dry: The requirements of air gaging aren’t very different from mechanical gaging.
Measuring Tools Basics: Faster and Better
In a high-volume production environment, the cost of inspection is related to the speed with which measurements can be made and interpreted.
Measurement for True Surface Analysis
Optical metrology is providing more information, faster, about surfaces that were once impossible to measure and understand.
Why QC Inspectors Should Consider Gaging Fixture Spring Rates
All fixtures for part gaging will have some amount of deflection or spring rate that can affect measurement accuracy. A better understanding of spring rate can enable quality control inspectors to detect and eliminate this possible error source.
